SUV Deals: May 2013

With so many choices, it can be hard to pick the right SUV. Fortunately, our list of SUV deals will help shoppers find a good deal. That's because we've rounded up today's top incentives on some of our favorite new models for drivers interested in buying or leasing a new SUV this month.

Dodge Durango

The full-size Dodge Durango SUV offers 3-row seating and available V8 power. In May, it's available with several incentives. The best deals on the Durango are cash-back offers for buyers paying in full. Through the end of the month, shoppers can get up to $2,500 back on most Durango models or $3,500 off the upscale Durango R/T. Drivers interested in financing the Durango can also get a good deal, as Dodge is offering zero percent interest for up to 36 months -- an offer that adds $1,000 cash back for the R/T trim. Shoppers can also lease a Durango SXT for 39 months with payments from $319 per month after $2,999 down at lease signing.

Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV with standard 3-row seating. Through the end of May, it's offered to qualified buyers with interest rates as low as 0.9 percent for up to 60 months. Shoppers looking to lease their next SUV can also get two incentives on the Pilot this month. Drivers searching for the lowest payment can get a 36-month term on the Pilot LX with payments from just $269 per month. That deal requires $2,499 down at lease signing. For those who would rather put nothing down, Honda is offering a 36-month lease on the Pilot LX with zero down and payments from $330 per month.

Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson is a fuel-efficient compact SUV that rivals the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape. In May, it's available with a host of incentives. The best deal is a lease offer on the mid-level Tucson GLS. That model is available with payments from $309 per month for 36 months -- a deal that requires nothing down at lease signing. Those looking to finance a Tucson can also get a good deal, as Hyundai is offering interest rates as low as 2.9 percent for up to 60 months. And for returning Hyundai customers, the Tucson is available with up to $500 cash back.

Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV with a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine. In May, it's available with three special offers. The best deal is for shoppers looking to lease. Those drivers can get a 39-month deal on a Rogue with nothing down and payments starting at $329 per month. For drivers who would rather finance, Nissan is offering the Rogue to qualified buyers at zero percent interest for up to 36 months. And shoppers paying in full can get up to $2,800 cash back -- a big number for an SUV that starts around $23,000.

Subaru Forester

Several good deals are available on the compact Subaru Forester, since it's being replaced by an all-new model for 2014. The best deals are for buyers looking to finance the 2013 Forester. For qualified buyers, Subaru is offering the crossover with zero percent interest for up to 36 months. Lease shoppers can also get a deal throughout the end of May. Drivers who put down $1,929 at lease signing can get a 42-month term with payments from $229 per month. That's a good price -- and it's even better when you consider the Forester includes all-wheel drive standard, unlike most rivals.

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is among the most popular midsize crossovers on the market. In May, it's available with three incentives. The best is for shoppers interested in financing the SUV. Through the end of the month, qualified buyers can get interest rates as low as zero percent on the Highlander for up to 60 months. Toyota is also offering a 36-month lease deal on the Highlander in May. Shoppers who put down $2,678 at lease signing can get payments as low as $279 per month. There's no cash-back deal for those paying in full, though we think most cash buyers would probably be better served by Toyota's 36-month, zero-percent interest deal.

What it means to you: Shoppers searching for SUV deals in May should consult our list before they visit a dealership.

Incentives can vary based on where you live, so residency restrictions may apply. Also, only buyers with very good credit will qualify for most of these deals. Not all incentives are available to all customers.

Doug DeMuro
has a wide range of automotive industry experience, from work at a Ferrari dealership to a manager for Porsche North America. A lifelong car enthusiast, Doug's eclectic vehicle purchases include a Porsche 911 Turbo, an E63 AMG wagon, an old Range Rover and a Mercedes Benz G-wagen.